Variegated Viburnum: A Colorful Addition to Your Garden
Viburnum is a popular landscaping shrub that produces attractive springtime flowers followed by colorful berries that attract songbirds to your garden well into winter. But did you know that there are also variegated viburnum plants with stunningly beautiful leaves?
What is Variegated Viburnum?
Variegated viburnum is a type of viburnum plant that has leaves with multiple colors. This can include shades of green, yellow, cream, pink, and even purple. Variegated viburnum plants are often grown for their ornamental value, as they can add a splash of color to any garden.
Types of Variegated Viburnum
There are many different types of variegated viburnum plants, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Wayfaringtree viburnum (Viburnum lantana `Variegatum’): This evergreen shrub has large green leaves splashed with flecks of gold, chartreuse, and creamy yellow. It produces creamy blooms in spring, followed by light green berries that ripen to reddish purple or black by late summer.
- Laurustinus viburnum (Viburnum tinus `Variegatum’): Also known as Laurenstine, this viburnum has glossy leaves with irregular, creamy yellow edges and often patches of pale green in the leaf centers. It produces fragrant white blooms with a slight pink tint and red, black, or blue berries.
- Japanese viburnum (Viburnum japonicum `Variegatum’): This variegated Japanese viburnum is a shrub that shows off shiny, dark green leaves with distinct, golden yellow splashes. The star-shaped white flowers have a slightly sweet aroma and the clusters of berries are bright red.
Caring for Variegated Viburnum
Variegated viburnum plants are relatively easy to care for. They prefer to be planted in full or partial shade, as the bright sunlight can cause the variegation to fade. They also need well-drained soil and regular watering.
Benefits of Variegated Viburnum
Variegated viburnum plants offer a number of benefits, including:
- Attractive foliage: The variegated leaves of these plants add a splash of color to any garden.
- Songbird attraction: The berries of variegated viburnum plants attract songbirds to your garden.
- Winter interest: The evergreen varieties of variegated viburnum provide year-round interest in your garden.
Planting Variegated Viburnum
When planting variegated viburnum, choose a location that receives full or partial shade. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant deeply and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.
Pruning Variegated Viburnum
Variegated viburnum plants should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back any overgrown branches to keep the plant in shape.
Fertilizing Variegated Viburnum
Fertilize variegated viburnum plants in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the directions on the fertilizer package for the correct application rate.
Watering Variegated Viburnum
Water variegated viburnum plants regularly, especially during hot weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Variegated Viburnum: A Great Choice for Your Garden
Variegated viburnum plants are a beautiful and easy-to-care-for addition to any garden. With their colorful leaves and attractive berries, they are sure to add a touch of beauty to your landscape.
